Community Pays Tribute to Richard Dick Blake: A Legacy of Pride

Cocoa, Florida, USA - On a hot June morning, the community gathered at Cocoa High School stadium to honor a truly remarkable man: Richard „Dick“ Blake. This gathering was not just a somber occasion; it celebrated the life of Cocoa High’s former principal and the first African American principal in Brevard Public Schools, whose legacy still inspires many. The stadium, named after him in 2018, served as the perfect backdrop for this tribute as family, friends, and community leaders came together to share their memories and respect for a life dedicated to education and service.

Blake, who passed away at the age of 91, was a trailblazer for civil rights and education. Born in 1933 in Bonaventure, Florida, he grew up in a family of migrant workers. This upbringing instilled in him a deep commitment to education and social justice. Upon earning his bachelor’s degree from Claflin University and master’s degrees from Columbia University and Florida A&M University, Blake embarked on a long and impactful career as a teacher and coach at Monroe High School before stepping into the role of principal at Cocoa High.

A Lifelong Commitment to Education

During his service at Cocoa High, which lasted 23 years, Blake emphasized excellence among his students, often encouraging them with phrases such as „Tighten up“ and inspiring them to embrace „Tiger Pride.“ His influence extended beyond the classroom as he mentored countless students and fostered a spirit of unity and perseverance. At the memorial, his three children, including Cocoa’s Mayor Michael Blake, recounted heartwarming and humorous anecdotes reflecting their father’s unwavering dedication to family and education.

Additionally, Blake made significant contributions to the Rockledge community, serving on the city council for a remarkable 40 years. Recognized for his service, a city park in Rockledge was renamed in his honor, further testament to his lasting legacy. Community members like Thomas Cole and Neely Dunn spoke about how Blake’s mentorship helped shape their lives. Their heartfelt words echoed the sentiments of many whose lives he touched.

In Honor of a Pioneer

The service was a moving blend of laughter and tears, as friends recalled Blake’s playful nature and the serious impact he had on their lives. A final touch was the inclusion of „Eye of the Tiger,“ a fitting tribute to someone so enshrined in local lore for his legendary „Tiger Pride.“ The event closed with a request from the family for donations to the Dick Blake Scholarship Fund at Cocoa High rather than flowers, underscoring his lifelong passion for supporting education.

Blake’s legacy is not only found in Cocoa but in the broader landscape of education, resonating with the histories of influential Black educators across the nation. As highlighted by the importance of recognizing achievements in the field, figures like Blake remind us of the ongoing struggles and triumphs inherent in the pursuit of equality and excellence in education. His story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, echoing the experiences of educators such as Mary McLeod Bethune and Inez Beverly Prosser, who also paved the way for future generations.

Richard „Dick“ Blake’s story is woven into the fabric of Brevard County and beyond. As we reflect on his life, we honor the incredible work of all educators who dare to change history and uplift their communities. Cole and Dunn’s reflections, coupled with the powerful eulogies, highlight a life richly lived in service of others—a life that will continue to inspire future leaders and educators.